How is chemotherapy different in older adults?

Age alone does not determine whether chemotherapy is suitable. The team may review kidney and liver function, heart health, nutrition, mobility, falls, memory, mood, hearing, other medicines and the help available at home.

These details can affect the choice of medicine, dose, schedule and monitoring. The aim is to weigh cancer control against effects such as tiredness, infection risk, nausea, nerve symptoms, changes in blood counts or difficulty managing daily activities.

Bring an up-to-date medicine list, including non-prescription products, and mention allergies, falls, weight or appetite changes, memory concerns and previous treatment. Ask whether a pharmacist, geriatric specialist, dietitian, physiotherapist or social worker should be involved.

Arrange practical help for transport, meals, appointments and household tasks if needed. Keep a symptom record and do not stop regular medicines without advice. Discuss the benefits you hope for, the burdens you would avoid and what matters most in daily life.

Contact the oncology team promptly for fever, chills, new confusion, worsening weakness, falls, breathlessness, uncontrolled vomiting, inability to drink, unusual bleeding or a new rash. Seek emergency care for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting or sudden one-sided weakness.

Ask: What benefit do you expect from this treatment? How will my kidney, liver and heart function affect dosing? Could any medicines interact? What symptoms require a call? Can treatment be adjusted if independence or quality of life changes? What home and follow-up support is available?